Creation of image designating file and reproduction of image using same

ABSTRACT

A technique for enabling scenario files and image files for supply to a scenario generating device to be created easily is provided. The scenario creating device creates a scenario file supplied to a scenario reproducing device capable of reproducing only image files of a predetermined format. The scenario creating device comprises: an input section including a pointing device; a display section; and a scenario creating section for creating the scenario file. The scenario creating section provides a display of an execution icon on the display screen for causing the scenario creating section to execute a process. When a file icon for a source file of a predetermined format including pagewise scenario information and image information is dragged and dropped on the execution icon by means of operation of the pointing device, a scenario file is created on the basis of the scenario information, and an image file of the predetermined format is generated on the basis of the image information.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This is a divisional application of U.S. application Ser. No.13/945,621, filed Jul. 18, 2013(issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,041,524),which is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No.11/512,143, filed Aug. 30, 2006, which is a divisional application ofU.S. application Ser. No. 10/048,027 filed on Jan. 28, 2002, which is aNational Stage Application of PCT/JP01/04879 filed in Japan on Jun. 8,2001, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference intheir entirety.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to a technique for creating an image designatingfile that designates image files, such as scenario files and indexfiles, and reproducing images using the image designating file.

Projection type display devices (i.e. projectors) can display enlargedimages on a projection screen, and are therefore often used inpresentations. In a typical presentation, a plurality of presentationsheets (also called “slides”) are sequentially displayed in pages. Thisprocess is executed according to a scenario file representing pagewisesequential display of images. Image files used in accordance withscenario files and index files are prepared in advance by the user, andsupplied to a projector.

However, in a projector, pagewise sequential display of images issometimes difficult because it is relatively hard to create or describescenario files using predetermined commands or prepare image filesrepresenting images for display according to a scenario file, in aformat suitable for a projector.

Also, when reproducing an image file or a data file, the projectorrequires a storage device having capacity capable of storing the imagefile, and there is a need for a technique for reducing the requiredcapacity of a storage device of a projector.

SUMMARY

This invention was made to solve the above-described problems of theprior art, and has as a first object to provide a technique for easysequential display of pagewise images in a projector or other scenarioreproducing device. It is a second object to provide a techniqueallowing the capacity of the storage device of a projector to be maderelatively small.

At least part of the above and the other related objects is attained bya device pertaining to a first aspect of the present invention, which isa scenario creating device for creating a scenario file to be suppliedto a scenario reproducing device capable of reproducing only image filesof a predetermined format in accordance with a scenario file forpagewise sequential display of images. The scenario creating devicecomprises: an input section including a pointing device; a displaysection; and a scenario creating section for creating the scenario filein accordance with operation of the input section. The scenario creatingsection provides a display of an execution icon on the display sectionfor causing the scenario creating section to execute a process. When afile icon for a source file of a predetermined format including pagewisescenario information and image information is dragged and dropped on theexecution icon by means of operation of the pointing device, thescenario creating section creates the scenario file on the basis of thescenario information and generates the image files of the predeterminedformat on the basis of the image information.

According to this device, a user, by dragging and dropping of the fileicon for a source file of predetermined format onto an execution iconfor executing a process by a scenario creating section, can easilycreate a scenario file and image file of predetermined format using asource file of predetermined format.

The second aspect of the present invention is directed to a method,which is a scenario creating method for creating a scenario file in ascenario creating device comprising an input section including apointing device and a display section. Here, the scenario file issupplied to a scenario reproducing device capable of reproducing onlyimage files of a predetermined format in accordance with a scenario filefor pagewise sequential display of images. The method comprises thesteps of: (a) providing a display of an execution icon on the displaysection for causing the scenario creating section to execute a process;and (b) when a file icon for a source file of a predetermined formatincluding pagewise scenario information and image information is draggedand dropped on the execution icon by means of operation of the pointingdevice, creating the scenario file on the basis of the scenarioinformation and generating the image files of the predetermined formaton the basis of the image information.

The method herein affords functions and advantages similar to thosederived from use of the device herein, and it is possible to easilycreate a scenario file and image file of predetermined format using asource file of predetermined format.

The third aspect of the present invention is directed to a storagemedium, which is a computer-readable storage medium storing a computerprogram for creating a scenario file in a scenario creating devicecomprising an input section including a pointing device and a displaysection. Here, the scenario file is supplied to a scenario reproducingdevice capable of reproducing only image files of a predetermined formatin accordance with a scenario file for pagewise sequential display ofimages. The computer-readable storage medium comprises the computerprogram for causing a computer to implement the functions of: providinga display of an execution icon on the display section for causing thescenario creating section to execute a process; and when a file icon fora source file of a predetermined format including pagewise scenarioinformation and image information is dragged and dropped on theexecution icon by means of operation of the pointing device, creatingthe scenario file on the basis of the scenario information andgenerating the image files of the predetermined format on the basis ofthe image information.

By executing by means of a computer a computer program stored in thisstorage medium, it is possible, similar to the method of the presentinvention, to easily create a scenario file and image file ofpredetermined format using a source file of predetermined format.

It should be noted that the above mentioned invention may be implementedthrough various embodiments such as a computer program for implementingthe function of a scenario creating device; a storage medium storingthat computer program; a data signal containing that computer programembodied in a carrier wave, etc.

The fourth aspect of the present invention is directed to a device,which is a scenario creating device for creating a scenario file forpagewise sequential display of images. The device comprises: an inputsection including a pointing device; a display section; and a scenariocreating section for creating the scenario file in accordance withoperation of the input section. The scenario creating section provides adisplay of a scenario file creation area on the display section, thescenario file creation area including a file management area fordisplaying source files and a selected source file information area fordisplaying, in a sequence selected by a user, selected source fileinformation representing information of a source file selected by theuser in the file management area. Then, the scenario creating sectioncreates the scenario file in response to a content of the display in theselected source file information area.

In this arrangement, scenario files can be created easily, simply bydisplaying selected source file information in a selected source fileinformation area in a desired sequence. By supplying a scenario filecreated in this way to a projector or other scenario reproducing device,pagewise images can be sequentially displayed with ease.

In the above scenario creating device, it is preferable that thescenario creating section is capable of creating the scenario fileindicating a plurality of source files. By so doing, scenario files canbe created with ease, even where source files of multiple types of fileformat are used.

In the above scenario creating device, it is also preferable that theselected source file information is displayed in the selected sourcefile information area when a file icon for a source file displayed inthe file management area is dragged and dropped into the selected sourcefile information area by means of operation of the pointing device. Byso doing, scenario files can be created with ease, simply by operating apointing device.

In the above scenario creating device, the selected source fileinformation may include page indicating information indicating a page inthe selected source file. By so doing, scenario files can be createdusing only a desired page, even where a source file has multiple pagecontent.

In the above scenario creating device, it is preferable that thescenario creation area further includes: a reduced image display areafor displaying pagewise image information as a reduced pagewise imagewith regard to a source file of a predetermined format includingpagewise scenario information and image information, wherein the sourcefile is displayed in the file management area. When a reduced pagewiseimage displayed in the reduced image display area is dragged and droppedinto the selected source file information area by means of operation ofthe pointing device, the selected source file information including thepage indicating information is displayed in the selected source fileinformation area. In this way, by display of reduced images, content ofpagewise images can be easily verified, so that scenario files can becreated with ease, simply by operating a pointing device.

The above scenario creating device may further comprise: a networkinterface section for connection to a network. The scenario creatingsection may select a source file stored in another external deviceconnected to the network, and create the scenario file. By so doing,scenario files can be created with ease using source files that have notbeen prepared in the scenario creating device.

The above scenario creating device may further comprise: a scenariosupplying section for supplying the scenario file created by thescenario creating section to a scenario reproducing device but notsupplying a source file, selected during creation of the scenario file,to the scenario reproducing device. By so doing, as source files are notstored in the scenario reproducing device, the memory capacity of thescenario reproducing device can be made relatively small. Duringexecution of scenario files, the scenario reproducing device may readout source files from another external device etc.

The fifth aspect of the present invention is directed to a device, whichis a projector for projecting and displaying images in accordance with ascenario file for pagewise sequential display of images. The devicecomprises: a page image processor for reading out a source file andpreparing page image data representing a pagewise image for projecteddisplay according to the scenario file stored in a memory; anelectro-optical device for forming image light in response to the pageimage data; and a projection optical system for projecting image lightobtained with the electro-optical device. The page image processorprepares the page image data on the basis of the source files ofmultiple formats.

This projector comprises a page image processor capable of preparingpage image data on the basis of multiple-format source files, so thetrouble of specially preparing image files of predetermined format canbe omitted. As a result of this, a projector can easily sequentiallydisplay pagewise images.

The above projector may further comprise: a network interface sectionfor connection to a network. The page image processor may reads out viathe network interface section a source file stored in another externaldevice connected to the network, in accordance with the scenario file.By so doing, the projector does not need to store source files stored inanother external device, so the memory capacity of the projector can bemade relatively small.

The above projector may further comprise: a scenario supplying devicefor supplying the scenario file to the memory.

In the above projector, it is preferable that the scenario supplyingdevice comprises: an input section including a pointing device; adisplay section; and a scenario supplying section for supplying theprepared scenario file to the memory. The scenario supplying sectionprovides a display of an execution icon on the display section forcausing the scenario supplying section to execute a process. When a fileicon for a scenario file is dragged and dropped on the execution icon bymeans of operation of the pointing device, the scenario supplyingsection supplies the scenario file to the memory. By providing this kindof scenario supplying device, scenario files can be supplied to memorywith ease, simply by operating a pointing device.

In the above projector, the scenario supplying device may furthercomprise: an operation information generator for detecting operation ofthe pointing device by a user and generating operation information onthe basis of detection results. The operation information generator,upon supply of the scenario file to the memory by the scenario supplyingsection, may provide a display of an operation information generationarea which is used in generating operation information due to operationof the pointing device. The operation information generator may generatethe operation information due to operation of the pointing device onlywhen a pointer image associated with the pointing device is displayedwithin the operation information generation area, and supply theoperation information to the page image processor. The page imageprocessor may prepare the page image data according to the suppliedscenario file, synthesize the page image data and embellishment imagedata on the basis of the operation information, and superimpose anembellishment image represented by the embellishment image data on apredetermined location in a page image represented by the page imagedata. By so doing, the page image processor can easily superimpose, onthe basis of operation information, an embellishment image in a pageimage prepared according to a scenario file.

In the above projector, the page image processor may automaticallyinitiate processing according to the scenario file when the scenariofile is supplied to the memory.

The sixth aspect of the present invention is directed to a device, whichis a projector for projecting and displaying images. The projectorcomprises: a source file supplying device for supplying a source filethat includes pagewise scenario information and image information; apage image processor for reading out the source file supplied by thesource file supplying device and stored in a memory, and preparing pageimage data representing a pagewise image represented by the imageinformation in accordance with the scenario information; anelectro-optical device for forming image light in response to the pageimage data; and a projection optical system for projecting image lightobtained with the electro-optical device. Here, the source filesupplying device comprises: an input section including a pointingdevice; a display section; and a source file supplying section forsupplying the source file to the memory. The source file supplyingsection provides a display of an execution icon on the display sectionfor causing the source file supplying section to execute a process. Whena file icon for the source file is dragged and dropped on the executionicon by means of operation of the pointing device, the source filesupplying section supplies the source file to the memory.

This projector comprises a page image processor that can prepare pageimage data representing pagewise images using a source file ofpredetermined format as-is, so the trouble of creating a scenario filecan be omitted. As a result of this, the projector can easilysequentially display pagewise images.

In the above projector, the source file supplying device may furthercomprise: an operation information generator for detecting operation ofthe pointing device by a user and generating operation information onthe basis of detection results. The operation information generator,upon supply of the source file to the memory by the source filesupplying section, may provide a display of an operation informationgeneration area which is used in generating operation information due tooperation of the pointing device. Then, the operation informationgenerator may generate the operation information due to operation of thepointing device only when a pointer image associated with the pointingdevice is displayed within the operation information generation area,and supply the operation information to the page image processor. Andthe page image processor may prepare the page image data using thesupplied source file, synthesize the page image data and embellishmentimage data on the basis of the operation information, and superimpose anembellishment image represented by the embellishment image data on apredetermined location in a page image represented by the page imagedata. By so doing, the page image processor can easily superimpose, onthe basis of operation information, an embellishment image in a pageimage prepared using a source file.

In the above projector, the page image processor may automaticallyinitiate processing according to the scenario information of the sourcefile when the source file is supplied to the memory.

The seventh aspect of the present invention is directed to a method,which is a scenario creating method for creating a scenario file forpagewise sequential display of images in a scenario creating devicecomprising an input section including a pointing device, and a displaysection. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a display of ascenario file creation area on the display section, the scenario filecreation area including a file management area for displaying sourcefiles and a selected source file information area for displaying, in asequence selected by a user, selected source file informationrepresenting information of a source file selected by the user in thefile management area; and (b) creating the scenario file in response toa content of the display in the selected source file information area.

The method herein affords functions and advantages similar to thosederived from use of the scenario creating device herein, and it ispossible to easily create a scenario file simply by display of selectedsource file information in the selected source file information area ina desired sequence. Also, by supplying a scenario file created in thisway to a projector or other scenario reproducing device, it is possiblefor pagewise images to be easily sequentially displayed.

The eighth aspect of the present invention is directed to a storagemedium, which is a computer-readable storage medium storing a computerprogram for creating a scenario file for pagewise sequential display ofimages in a scenario creating device comprising an input sectionincluding a pointing device, and a display section. Thecomputer-readable storage medium comprises the computer program forcausing a computer to implement the functions of: providing a display ofa scenario file creation area on the display section, the scenario filecreation area including a file management area for displaying sourcefiles and a selected source file information area for displaying, in asequence selected by a user, selected source file informationrepresenting information of a source file selected by the user in thefile management area; and creating the scenario file in response to acontent of the display in the selected source file information area.

By executing by means of a scenario creating device a computer programstored in this storage device, in a manner similar to the method of theinvention, a scenario file may be created easily simply by displayingselected source file information in the selected source file informationarea in a desired sequence. Also, by supplying a scenario file createdin this way to a projector or other scenario reproducing device, it ispossible for pagewise images to be easily sequentially displayed.

It should be noted that the above mentioned invention may be implementedthrough various embodiments such as a computer program for implementingat least one function among the function of a scenario creating deviceand the function of a scenario reproducing device (projector); a storagemedium storing that computer program; a data signal containing thatcomputer program embodied in a carrier wave, etc.

The ninth aspect of the present invention is directed to a device, whichis an image display system wherein a file server storing a data file, aprojector, and a computer are interconnected via a network. Here, thecomputer comprises: input means for inputting data and commands; datafile storage means for storing a data file for display by the projector;transfer request determination means for determining whether a requestfor transfer of a desired data file from the data file storage means tothe file server has occurred via the input means; index file generatingmeans for generating an index file that includes transfer destinationinformation of the data file and has smaller file size than that of thedata file, when it is determined that a transfer request for the datafile has occurred; and transferring means for transferring the data fileand the index file to the file server and the projector, respectively.And, the projector comprises: index file storage means for receiving andstoring the transferred index file; decision screen generating means forgenerating a data file decision screen for deciding a data file desiredto be displayed using an index file stored in the index file storagedevice; transfer requesting means for indicating the file server on thebasis of transfer destination information included in the index fileassociated with the data file decided via the data file decision screen,and requesting transfer of the data file; and projection display meansfor receiving and projection displaying the transfer requested datafile.

According to this image display system, there is no need for a storagedevice of large memory capacity in the projector with regard totransferring data files, and data files can be reproduced independentlyby the projector. Also, without awareness of the network, by means ofremote operation data file can be transferred and data file can bereproduced.

In the above image display system, the transfer destination informationmay include the transfer location and file name of the data file. Theindex file may include password information in addition to the transferdestination information. By providing this arrangement, the convenienceof an index file can be improved. Also, the transfer request means ofthe projector may further request entry of a password, and when theentered password matches the password information, request the fileserver for transfer of the decided data file. By providing thisarrangement, improper access of data files by a third party can beprevented.

In the above image display system, the computer may further comprise: adisplay screen device for displaying a list of data files stored in thedata file storage means and an icon for the projector. The transferrequest determination means may determine that a transfer request hasoccurred, when the icon for the desired data file from the list ofstored data files is dragged and dropped on the icon for the projectorin the display screen of the display screen device. By providing thisarrangement, it is possible for data file transfer operations to beperformed visually, so that data file transfer operations can besimplified.

The tenth aspect of the present invention is directed to a method, whichis a method for transferring a data file generated by a computer. Themethod comprises the steps of: deciding a data file for transfer;determining whether a transfer request for the decided data file hasoccurred; generating an index file that includes storage locationinformation of the decided data file and has smaller file size than thatof the data file, when it is determined that a transfer request for thedecided data file has occurred; transferring the decided data file to astorage device as a storage destination; and transferring the index fileto a projector.

With this data file transfer method, data files can be transferredwithout the need for a storage device of large memory capacity in theprojector.

The data file transfer method pertaining to the tenth aspect of thepresent invention, like the ninth aspect of the present invention,permits of various modifications and improvements.

The eleventh aspect of the present invention is directed to a method,which is a method for displaying a data file in a projector on the basisof an index file that includes storage location information for the datafile and has smaller file size than that of the data file. Te methodcomprises the steps of: deciding a data file desired to be displayedusing the index file; indicating the storage location of the decideddata file on the basis of the corresponding index file; requestingtransfer of the decided data file to a storage destination having theindicated storage location; and receiving and projection displaying thedecided data file.

According to this data file display method, data files of large filesize can be handled without dependence on the memory capacity of thestorage device in the projector. Also, the storage locations (storagedestinations) of data files are indicated using an index file, so bymeans of remote operation, transferring and display processing of datafile can be executed without awareness of the network.

The data file display method pertaining to the eleventh aspect of thepresent invention, like the ninth aspect of the present invention,permits of various modifications and improvements.

The twelfth aspect of the present invention is directed to a device,which is a projector for acquiring a data file for display via a networkfrom a file server storing data files. The projector comprises: inputmeans for inputting data and commands; index file storage means forstoring an index file that includes storage location information for thedata file and has smaller file size than that of the data file;selection screen generating means for generating a selection screen fora data file associated with the index file; transfer requesting meansfor indicating the storage location of a selected data file usingstorage location information in the index file corresponding to the datafile selected via the selection screen, and requesting transfer of theselected data file; and projection display means for projectiondisplaying of the selected data file acquired via the network.

According to this projector, data files of large file size can behandled without dependence on the memory capacity of the storage devicein the projector. Also, the storage destinations of data files areindicated using an index file, so by means of remote operation,transferring and display processing of data file can be executed withoutawareness of the network.

The thirteenth aspect of the present invention is directed to a devicefor transferring a data file via a network having connected projectorand file server. The device comprises: input means for inputting dataand commands; data file storage means for storing the data file;transfer request determination means for determining if there has beeninput a transfer request for a desired data file among data files storedin the data file storage means via the input means; reference filegenerating means for generating a reference file that includes storagelocation information for the desired data file and has smaller file sizethan that of the data file, when it is determined that a transferrequest has been input; and transferring means for transferring thedesired data file and the reference file to the file server and theprojector, respectively.

According to this data file transfer device, data files of large filesize can be transferred irrespective of the memory capacity of thestorage device in the projector. Also, as the storage destinations ofdata files can be indicated by an index file, by transferring the indexfile to the projector, data files can be operated through a sensesimilar to that where data files have been transferred to the projector.

The data file transfer device pertaining to the thirteenth aspect of thepresent invention, like the ninth aspect of the present invention,permits of various modifications and improvements.

The fourteenth aspect of the present invention is directed to a storagemedium, which is a computer-readable storage medium storing a programexecuted on a computer, for transferring a data file generated by thecomputer. The program comprises the steps of: deciding a data file fortransfer; determining whether a transfer request for the decided datafile has occurred; generating an index file that includes storagelocation information of the decided data file and has smaller file sizethan that of the data file, when it is determined that a transferrequest for the decided data file has occurred; transferring the decideddata file to a storage device as a storage destination; and transferringthe index file to a projector.

The computer-readable medium herein affords functions and advantagessimilar to those of the tenth aspect of the present invention.

The fifteenth aspect of the present invention is directed to a device,which is a computer-readable storage medium storing a program fordisplaying in a projector a data file on the basis of an index file thatincludes storage location information for the data file and has smallerfile size than that of the data file. The program comprises the steps ofdeciding a data file desired to be displayed using the index file;deciding the storage location of the decided data file on the basis ofthe corresponding index file; requesting transfer of the decided datafile to a storage destination having the decided storage location; andreceiving and projection displaying the decided data file.

The computer-readable medium herein affords functions and advantagessimilar to those of the eleventh aspect of the present invention.

In the aspects of the present invention mentioned above, storagelocations are unique storage locations at which data files are stored,and data files may be indicated (identified) by indicating storagelocations on the basis of storage location information.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenariocreating/reproducing system embodying the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofcomputer PC1 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofprojector PJ1 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing a series of processes in the scenariocreating/reproducing system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is an illustrative diagram showing a desktop screen displayed ondisplay section 350;

FIG. 6 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenario file selectionscreen SSM displayed by projector PJ1;

FIG. 7 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of content of ascenario file supplied to projector PJ1;

FIG. 8 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenariocreating/reproducing system in a second embodiment;

FIG. 9 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofcomputer PC2 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofprojector PJ2 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a series of processes in the scenariocreating/reproducing system of FIG. 8;

FIG. 12 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenario creation windowSMW displayed on display section 350;

FIG. 13 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenario file selectionscreen SSM displayed by projector PJ2;

FIG. 14 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of content of ascenario file supplied to projector PJ2;

FIG. 15 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenario reproducing systemin a third embodiment;

FIG. 16 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofcomputer PC3 of FIG. 15;

FIG. 17 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofprojector PJ3 of FIG. 15;

FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing a series of processes in the scenarioreproducing system of FIG. 15;

FIG. 19 is an illustrative diagram showing a desktop screen displayed ondisplay section 350;

FIG. 20 is an illustrative diagram showing an operation detection windowDW displayed on display section 350 of computer PC3;

FIGS. 21(A-1)-21(A-3) and 21(B-1)-21(B-3) are illustrative diagrams ofthe process when superimposing a box image PB in a page image ORG usinga pointer image PPJ in page image ORG;

FIG. 22 is an illustrative diagram showing an exemplary arrangement foran image display system composed of a projector in accordance with afourth embodiment, connected to a network;

FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing an internal circuit arrangement of aprojector in accordance with a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing a processing routine executed whentransferring display data from a personal computer PC4 to a projectorPJ4;

FIG. 25 is an illustrative diagram showing a process executed on display1054 of personal computer PC4, for transferring display data frompersonal computer PC4 to projector PJ4;

FIG. 26 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of an index fileinformation setting screen that appears on display 1054 after theprocess shown in FIG. 25 has been completed;

FIG. 27 is an illustrative diagram conceptually depicting data includedin an index file;

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing a processing routine executed inprojector PJ4 when reproducing a data file stored in an external storagedevice 1041;

FIG. 29 is an illustrative diagram generically depicting a remotecontroller 1040 used in the fourth embodiment;

FIG. 30 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a menu screenfrom among projection display screens SR of projector PJ4;

FIG. 31 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of an index screenfrom among projection display screens SR of projector PJ4;

FIG. 32 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a passwordinput box PB1 display from among projection display screens SR ofprojector PJ4; and

FIG. 33 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of anauthorization failed display box PB2 display from among projectiondisplay screens SR of projector PJ4.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

A. First Embodiment

A mode of the invention will be described on the basis of an embodiment.FIG. 1 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenariocreating/reproducing system embodying the present invention. Thisscenario creating/reproducing system comprises a computer PC1functioning as a scenario creating device and a scenario supplyingdevice; and a projector (i.e. a projection type display device) PJ1functioning as a scenario reproducing device. Computer PC1 and projectorPJ1 are connected by a USB cable.

The projector PJ1 of this embodiment can reproduce image files ofpredetermined format according to a scenario file. However, the imagefile format reproducible by projector PJ1 is only a single format. Thus,the computer PC1 of this embodiment creates a scenario file SF and apredetermined format image file PF, and supplies these to projector PJ1.Projector PJ1, according to the supplied scenario file SF, displays on ascreen SC a page image ORG corresponding to the predetermined formatimage file PF.

FIG. 2 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofcomputer PC1 of FIG. 1. Computer PC1 comprises a CPU 300, an externalstorage device 310, a ROM 320, a RAM 330, a display section 350, aninput section 360 such as a mouse MS and keyboard KB, and a USBinterface section 380.

RAM 330 stores a scenario creating program implementing the function ofa scenario creating section 332A. Scenario creating section 332A has thefunction of creating a scenario file SF for pagewise sequential display,and image files PF used at the time of scenario reproduction. However,since the projector PJ1 of this embodiment can only reproduce imagefiles PF of predetermined format according to scenario file SF, scenariocreating section 332A generates image files PF of predetermined format.Also, scenario creating section 332A has the function of supplying thecreated scenario file SF and image files PF to projector PJ1 via USBinterface section 380. That is, scenario creating section 332A and USBinterface section 380 functions as a scenario supplying section forsupplying scenario file SF to projector PJ1.

The computer program implementing the function of the abovementionedscenario creating section 332A is provided in a form stored on acomputer-readable storage medium such as a flexible disk, CD-ROM etc.The computer reads out the computer program from the storage medium andtransfers it to an internal storage device or external storage device.Or, a computer program may be supplied to the computer via acommunications path. At the time of implementing the function of thecomputer program, the computer program stored in an internal storagedevice is executed by the microprocessor of the computer. Also, thecomputer program stored on the storage medium may be read out anddirectly executed by the computer.

In this specification, computer is a general concept including hardwaredevices and an operating system, and it means hardware devices thatoperate under control of the operating system. Also, where an operatingsystem is unnecessary and hardware devices can be operated independentlyby an application program, those hardware devices correspond to acomputer. Hardware devices comprise at least a CPU or othermicroprocessor, and means for reading out a computer program stored on astorage medium. The computer program includes program code forimplementing the functions of each of the above-described means on thiskind of computer. Further, some of the above-described functions may beimplemented not by an application program but by the operating system.

As the “storage medium” in the present invention, there may be used aflexible disk, CD-ROM, DVD, magneto-optical disk, IC card, ROMcartridge, punch card, printed matter imprinted with symbols such as abar code, etc., computer internal storage devices (RAM, ROM or othermemory), external storage devices, and various other storage mediareadable by a computer.

FIG. 3 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofprojection type display device, i.e. projector PJ1 of FIG. 1. ProjectorPJ1 comprises a CPU 100, an external storage device 102, an internalstorage device 104 such as ROM or RAM, an analog image signal inputsection 108, an image processor 110, a liquid crystal light valve driver120, a liquid crystal light valve 130, an embellishment image processor140, a menu image processor 150, a remote control signal processor 160,a memory card controller 170 for reading out an image file etc. storedon a memory card MC, and a USB interface section 180. Liquid crystallight valve 130 is substantially evenly illuminated by an illuminatingoptical system 200, and image light formed in liquid crystal light valve130 is projected by a projection optical system 220 onto a screen SC. InFIG. 3, depiction of optical systems 200, 220 is simplified.

Analog image signal input 108 has a function of AD conversion of analogimage signal AV1 which is supplied from an external image supplyingdevice (not shown), and outputting a digital image signal DV1. Theanalog image signal AV1 may be an RGB signal representing a computerimage supplied from a personal computer, a composite image signalrepresenting video supplied from a video recorder or televisionreceiver, or other such image signals.

Image processor 110 has a function of generating synthesized image datasynthesized from supplied original image data and embellishment imagedata. This process will provide on the screen SC a display of anoriginal image ORG represented by the original image data with asuperimposed embellishment image, such as a pointer image PPJ,represented by the embellishment image data. Image processor 110temporarily writes supplied original image data into a frame memory (notshown) and, when reading the original image data from the frame memory,synthesizes the original image data and embellishment image data, andsupplies the synthesized image data DV2 to liquid crystal light valvedriver 120.

The original image data may be selected from image data DV1 suppliedfrom analog image signal input section 108, pagewise page image datasupplied from internal storage device 104, menu image data supplied frommenu image processor 150, and image data read from a memory card MC andsupplied from memory card controller 170. The embellishment image datais supplied from embellishment image processor 140. Here, theembellishment image means an image prepared independently of theoriginal image, and displayed on screen SC by superimposition within theoriginal image.

Liquid crystal light valve driver 120 generates image display data SD inresponse to image data DV2 supplied from image processor 110. Liquidcrystal light valve 130 is driven by the image display data SD. Theliquid crystal light valve 130 modulates light from illuminating opticalsystem 200 and forms image light representing an image.

Embellishment image processor 140 has the function of generatingembellishment image data representing an embellishment image andsupplying it to image processor 110. Specifically, embellishment imageprocessor 140 generates embellishment image data of various kinds, suchas pointer image data representing a pointer image PPJ, an image ofpredetermined shape (such as a pointing image) created to a desired sizeby means of range specification using a pointer image PPJ, or a drawnimage (for example, a box image or border frame image), and supplies itto image processor 110.

Menu image processor 150 has the function of generating menu image datarepresenting a menu image and supplying it to image processor 110. Theuser can follow the menu image to perform various settings relating toprojector PJ1.

USB interface section 180 has the function of receiving a scenario fileSF and image files PF supplied from computer PC1 and supplying them tointernal storage device 104 via a bus 100 b.

Internal storage device 104 comprises a scenario reproducing section105A for reproducing a scenario file SF, and a scenario storage area 107for storing the supplied scenario file SF and image files PF. Scenarioreproducing section 105A reads out the image files PF according to thescenario file SF and supplies pagewise image data as original image datato image processor 110. However, scenario reproducing section 105A ofthis embodiment can read image files of only one predetermined formatwhich is different from the format of the source file.

In this embodiment the scenario file SF and the image files PF suppliedfrom USB interface section 180 are stored in scenario storage area 107in internal storage device 104, but could instead be stored in externalstorage device 102 or memory card MC inserted in memory card controller170. Also, without using USB interface section 180, scenario files SFand image files PF may be written to a memory card MC in computer PC1.In this case, a memory card MC should be inserted into memory cardcontroller 170 so that scenario files SF and image files PF may be readfrom the memory card MC.

Remote control signal processor 160 controls the functions of varioussections of projector PJ1 on the basis of control signals from a remotecontroller RM. For example, remote control signal processor 160 cancontrol the function of embellishment image processor 140 on the basisof control signals from a remote controller RM to superimpose a pointerimage PPJ at a desired location in an original image ORG.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing a series of processes in the scenariocreating/reproducing system of FIG. 1. It should be noted that StepsS101-S106 show processes of computer PC1, and Step S107 shows a processof projector PJ1.

In Step S101, an execution icon for causing processing to be executed byscenario creating section 332A is displayed on display section 350 (FIG.2) of computer PC1. FIG. 5 is an illustrative diagram showing a desktopscreen displayed on display section 350. As depicted, the desktop screenincludes an execution icon EI for causing processing to be executed byscenario creating section 332A.

In Step S102, the user operates the mouse MS (FIG. 2) of input section360 to drag and drop a file icon FI of a source file of predeterminedformat on the execution icon EI, as shown in FIG. 5.

Here, the source file of predetermined format means a file that includespagewise scenario information and image information, and in the presentembodiment is assumed to be a PPT format file (hereinafter “PPT file”)created using PowerPoint (trademark of Microsoft Corp.).

Drag and drop process means a process of placing the mouse pointer overan icon and dragging it, and then placing the icon over another icon anddropping it. Specifically, the drag and drop process in Step S102 meansthe following series of processes. That is, the mouse pointer PPC isplaced over the file icon FI displayed on display section 305, a switchprovided to mouse MS is pressed, and while continuing to hold it themouse MS is moved to move the file icon FI (drag process). Then, thefile icon FI is placed over the execution icon EI and the mouse MSswitch is released (drop process).

In Step S103, the scenario creation program is run by the drag and dropprocess of Step S102. At this time the program stored in externalstorage device 310 (FIG. 2) of computer PC1 is loaded into RAM 330 andfunctions as scenario creating section 332A.

In Step S104, scenario creating section 332A displays on display section350 a dialog box (not shown) for setting the supply destination to whichthe created scenario file should be supplied. In this embodiment, theuser sets as the supply destination for the scenario file the projectorPJ1 (FIG. 2) which is connected via USB interface section 380.

In Step S105, scenario creating section 332A creates a scenario file SFon the basis of pagewise scenario information contained in the sourcefile of predetermined format (PPT file) and creates image files ofpredetermined format on the basis of pagewise image information. Here,the image file of predetermined format means a file of a format suitablefor the projector PJ1 which is the scenario reproducing device, and inthis embodiment is assumed to be a JPEG format image file (hereinafteralso called “JPEG file”).

In Step S106, scenario creating section 332A supplies the scenario fileSF and image files PF created in Step S105 to projector PJ1 via USBinterface section 380. As noted, in this embodiment the scenario filesSF and the image files PF are stored in scenario storage area 107 (FIG.3) in the internal storage device 104 of projector PJ1.

In Step S107, projector PJ1 executes a process according to the suppliedscenario file SF. At this time, the user, using remote controller RM,displays a selection screen for selecting a desired scenario file from aplurality of scenario files stored in the internal storage device 104 ofprojector PJ1, and selects the desired scenario file. FIG. 6 is anillustrative diagram showing a scenario file selection screen SSMdisplayed by projector PJ1. It should be noted that this scenario fileselection screen SSM is displayed on screen SC by means of the menuimage processor 150, in response to a command from remote control signalprocessor 160, generating image data representing the scenario fileselection screen and supplying it to image processor 110. The userselects the desired scenario file in scenario file selection screen SSMusing the remote controller RM. In the scenario file selection screenSSM of FIG. 6, “Scenario File B” is selected.

When a scenario file has been selected in scenario file selection screenSSM, the scenario reproducing section 105A in internal storage device104, in accordance with the scenario file SF in scenario storage area107, sequentially reads out image files PF stored in scenario storagearea 107 and provides pagewise page image data as original image data toimage processor 110. The projector PJ1 is thus capable of pagewisesequential image projection onto screen SC.

It should be noted that, in this embodiment, processing in accordancewith the scenario file is executed after a scenario file has beenselected in scenario file selection screen SSM (FIG. 6), but it is alsopossible to have processing in accordance with scenario file SF executedsimultaneously with supply of the scenario file SF and image files PFfrom computer PC1 to projector PJ1.

FIG. 7 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the content of ascenario file supplied to projector PJ1. The symbols “L1” etc. appendedto the right in FIG. 7 indicating line number for convenience ofexplanation, and are not included in the actual scenario file. The“begin” command in line number L1 and the “end” command in line numberL17 are commands respectively signifying the beginning and end ofprocessing in accordance with the scenario file, and in actual practiceprocessing is executed in accordance with the commands of line numbersL2-L16.

The “Display” commands included in scenario file SF1 line numbers L2,L4, L6, L9, L11, L13 and L15 are commands to read out the subsequentJPEG file “Page1.jpg”, “Page2.jpg”, etc. and display the image. By meansof the processes of line numbers L2, L4, L6, L9, L11, L13 and L15,pagewise images included in the source file (PPT file) selected in StepS102 (FIG. 4) are projected and displayed in page order.

The “Pause” commands included in scenario file SF1 line numbers L3, L5and L8 are commands to maintain the preceding process until there isinput from the user. For example, when an image is projected anddisplayed at line number L2, the image indicated in line number L2 isdisplayed until the user instructs transition to the next process byusing the remote controller RM. This enables the user to performpagewise changing of displayed images at a desired timing.

By the way, PowerPoint (trademark of Microsoft Corp.) is capable ofcombining each page image with audio and setting the display time foreach page image. For this reason, the scenario information of the PPTfile in some instances contains pagewise audio information and/ordisplay time information. The scenario creating section 332A of thisembodiment enables scenario files to be created in accordance with suchscenario information. In cases where the PPT file contains audio data,the scenario creating section 332A creates an audio file and supplies itto projector PJ1.

The “Play” command included in line number L7 of the scenario file (FIG.7) is a command created on the basis of audio information contained inthe scenario information of the PPT file. The “Play” command is acommand to read out the subsequent audio file “Wave1.wav” and reproducethe audio. This command will reproduce sound effects, narration andother audio together with display of images, enabling presentations tobe carried out more effectively. Audio is output from a speaker (notshown) inside projector PJ1.

The “Wait” commands included in line numbers L10, L12, L14 and L16 ofscenario file SF are commands created on the basis of display timeinformation contained in the scenario information of the PPT file. The“Wait” command is a command to maintain the preceding process for anindicated time interval. For example, when an image is displayed at linenumber L9, after the image has been displayed for the “10000 msec”following the “Wait” command, the process proceeds to the next linenumber L11. By means of this, projected images can be automaticallypage-forwarded.

As noted above, in Step S107 projector PJ1 reads out supplied imagefiles (JPEG files) in accordance with a scenario file SF such as thatdepicted in FIG. 7, and sequentially projects pagewise images.

As described hereinabove, the computer PC1 of this embodiment comprisesa scenario creating section 332A, and functions as a scenario creatingdevice. Scenario creating section 332A displays on display section 350an execution icon EI for executing a process by scenario creatingsection 332A. When the file icon FI for a source file (PPT file) ofpredetermined format containing pagewise scenario information and imageinformation is dragged and dropped on the execution icon EI by means ofoperation of the mouse MS, the scenario creating section 332A generatesscenario file SF on the basis of the scenario information and generatesan image file (JPEG file) PF of predetermined format on the basis of theimage information.

With such a scenario creating device PC1, it is possible to easilycreate scenario files and predetermined format image files using sourcefiles of predetermined format. Also, if such scenario files andpredetermined format image files are supplied to a scenario reproducingdevice such as a projector PJ1 capable of reproducing only image filesof a predetermined format, pagewise images can easily be displayed insequence.

A1. Modification of First Embodiment

In the preceding embodiment, computer PC1 comprises a mouse MS as theinput section 360, but instead of a mouse MS there could be provided atablet, trackball, track pad, joystick or other pointing device. Thesepointing devices have the same function as the mouse MS and correspondto the pointing device in the present invention.

In the preceding embodiment, a JPEG file was described as the image fileof predetermined format reproduced by projector PJ1. However, instead ofa JPEG file, it could be a GIF file or TIFF file. That is, image fileshaving different formats than the source file format are acceptable.

B. Second Embodiment

Another mode of the invention will be described on the basis of anembodiment. FIG. 8 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenariocreating/reproducing system in a second embodiment. This scenariocreating/reproducing system comprises a computer PC2 functioning as ascenario creating device and a scenario supplying device; and aprojection type display device, i.e. a projector PJ2 functioning as ascenario reproducing device. Computer PC1 and projector PJ1 areinterconnected via a network NW. In this scenario creating/reproducingsystem a filer server SB is connected on the network NW. In thisembodiment, the network NW is assumed to be a LAN.

The projector PJ2 of this embodiment can reproduce source files of aplurality of formats accordance to a scenario file. Thus, the computerPC2 of this embodiment creates only a scenario file SF and supplies itto projector PJ2. Further, source files MF stored in computer PC2 aresupplied to and stored in projector PJ2 and file server SB. Inaccordance with a supplied scenario file SF, projector PJ2 reads outsource files MF stored in projector PJ2 and file server SB, and displayspage images ORG corresponding to source files MF on a screen SC.

In this description, “page” refers to a presentation sheet (slide)displayed individually on the basis of an indicated order. “Page image”means an image represented by a presentation sheet; each page imagecontains text, patterns, etc. A pagewise image displayed on screen SCetc. may be a whole image representing a single page image in itsentirety, or a partial image representing a portion of a single pageimage.

FIG. 9 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofcomputer PC2 of FIG. 8. Computer PC2 comprises a CPU 300, an externalstorage device 310, a ROM 320, a RAM 330, a display section 350, aninput section 360 such as a mouse MS and keyboard KB, and a networkinterface section 390. Computer PC2 is connected to projector PJ2 vianetwork interface section 390.

RAM 330 stores a scenario creating program implementing the function ofscenario creating section 332B. Scenario creating section 332B has thefunction of combining a plurality of source files of multiple formats tocreate a scenario file SF.

Scenario creating section 332B also has the function of supplying thescenario file SF to projector PJ2 via network interface section 390.That is, the scenario creating section 332B and network interfacesection 390 of this embodiment have the function of a scenario supplyingsection for supplying a scenario file SF to projector PJ2. Further,scenario creating section 332B has the function of supplying sourcefiles MF to projector PJ2 and file server SB via network interfacesection 390.

The computer program implementing the function of the abovementionedscenario creating section 332B is provided in a form stored on acomputer-readable storage medium such as a flexible disk, CD-ROM etc.The computer reads out the computer program from the storage medium andtransfers it to an internal storage device or external storage device.Or, a computer program may be supplied to the computer via acommunications path. At the time of implementing the function of thecomputer program, the computer program stored in an internal storagedevice is executed by the microprocessor of the computer. Also, thecomputer program stored on the storage medium may be read out anddirectly executed by the computer.

In this specification, computer is a general concept including hardwaredevices and an operating system, and it means hardware devices thatoperate under control of the operating system. Also, where an operatingsystem is unnecessary and hardware devices can be operated independentlyby an application program, those hardware devices correspond to acomputer. Hardware devices comprise at least a CPU or othermicroprocessor, and means for reading out a computer program stored on astorage medium. The computer program includes program code forimplementing the functions of each of the above-described means on thiskind of computer. Further, some of the above-described functions may beimplemented not by an application program but by the operating system.

As the “storage medium” in the present invention, there may be used aflexible disk, CD-ROM, DVD, magneto-optical disk, IC card, ROMcartridge, punch card, printed matter imprinted with symbols such as abar code, etc., computer internal storage devices (RAM, ROM or othermemory), external storage devices, and various other storage mediareadable by a computer.

FIG. 10 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofprojector PJ2 of FIG. 8. Projector PJ2 comprises a CPU 100, an externalstorage device 102, an internal storage device 104 such as ROM or RAM,an analog image signal input section 108, an image processor 110, aliquid crystal light valve driver 120, a liquid crystal light valve 130,an embellishment image processor 140, a menu image processor 150, aremote control signal processor 160, a memory card controller 170 forreading out an image file etc. stored on a memory card MC, and a networkinterface section 190. Liquid crystal light valve 130 is substantiallyevenly illuminated by an illuminating optical system 200, and imagelight formed in liquid crystal light valve 130 is projected by aprojection optical system 220 onto a screen SC. In FIG. 10, depiction ofoptical systems 200, 220 is simplified.

Analog image signal input section 108 has a function of AD conversion ofanalog image signal AV1 which is supplied from an external imagesupplying device (not shown), and outputting a digital image signal DV1.The analog image signal AV1 may be an RGB signal representing a computerimage supplied from a personal computer, a composite image signalrepresenting video supplied from a video recorder or televisionreceiver, or other such image signals.

Image processor 110 has a function of generating synthesized image datasynthesized from supplied original image data and embellishment imagedata. This process will provide on the screen SC a display of anoriginal image ORG represented by the original image data with asuperimposed embellishment image, such as a pointer image PPJ,represented by the embellishment image data. Image processor 110temporarily writes supplied original image data into a frame memory (notshown) and, when reading the original image data from the frame memory,synthesizes the original image data and embellishment image data, andsupplies the synthesized image data DV2 to liquid crystal light valvedriver 120.

The original image data may be selected from image data DV1 suppliedfrom analog image signal input section 108, pagewise page image datasupplied from internal storage device 104, menu image data supplied frommenu image processor 150, image data read from a memory card MC andsupplied from memory card controller 170. The embellishment image datais supplied from embellishment image processor 140. Here, theembellishment image means an image (appended image) preparedindependently of the original image, and displayed on screen SC bysuperimposition (appended) within the original image.

Liquid crystal light valve driver 120 generates image display data SD inresponse to image data DV2 supplied from image processor 110. Liquidcrystal light valve 130 is driven by the image display data SD. Theliquid crystal light valve 130 modulates light from illuminating opticalsystem 200 and forms image light representing an image.

Embellishment image processor 140 has the function of generatingembellishment image data representing an embellishment image andsupplying it to image processor 110. Specifically, embellishment imageprocessor 140 generates embellishment image data of various kinds, suchas pointer image data representing a pointer image PPJ, an image ofpredetermined shape (such as a pointing image) created to a desired sizeby means of range specification using a pointer image PPJ, or a drawnimage (for example, a box image or border frame image), and supplies itto image processor 110.

Menu image processor 150 has the function of generating menu image datarepresenting a menu image and supplying it to image processor 110. Theuser can follow the menu image to perform various settings relating toprojector PJ2.

Network interface section 190 has the function of connecting projectorPJ2 to the LAN and receiving scenario files SF, or source files MF usedin the scenario files SF, supplied from computer PC2 via the LAN, andsupplying these to internal storage device 104 via a bus 100 b.

Internal storage device 104 comprises a scenario reproducing section105B for reproducing supplied scenario files SF, and a scenario storagearea 107 for storing the supplied scenario files SF and source files MFsupplied from network interface section 190.

In this embodiment the scenario files SF and source files MF suppliedfrom network interface section 190 are stored in scenario storage area107 in internal storage device 104, but could instead be stored inexternal storage device 102 or memory card MC inserted in memory cardcontroller 170. Also, without using network interface section 190,scenario files SF and source files MF may be written to a memory card MCin computer PC2. In this case, a memory card MC should be inserted intomemory card controller 170 so that scenario files SF and source files MFmay be read from the memory card MC.

Scenario reproducing section 105B can read out source files MF ofmultiple formats created by a plurality of types of applicationprograms. That is, scenario reproducing section 105B is provided with aviewer function allowing the contents of source files MF of multipleformats created by a plurality of types of application programs to beviewed. In accordance with a scenario file SF, scenario reproducingsection 105B reads out source files MF stored in scenario storage area107 or file server SB, and supplies pagewise page image data as originalimage data to image processor 110.

Remote control signal processor 160 controls the functions of varioussections of projector PJ2 on the basis of control signals from a remotecontroller RM. For example, remote control signal processor 160 cancontrol the function of embellishment image processor 140 on the basisof control signals from a remote controller RM to superimpose a pointerimage PPJ at a desired location in an original image ORG.

As will be apparent from the preceding description, the CPU 100, imageprocessor 110, and scenario reproducing section 105B of this embodimentcorrespond to the page image processor in the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing a series of processes in the scenariocreating/reproducing system of FIG. 8. It should be noted that StepsS201-S205 show processes of computer PC2, and Step S206 shows a processof projector PJ2.

In Step S201, an execution icon (not shown) for causing processing to beexecuted by scenario creating section 332B, displayed on display section350 of computer PC2, is double-clicked with the mouse MS to run thescenario creating program. At this time, the program stored in externalstorage device 310 (FIG. 9) of computer PC2 is loaded into RAM 330 andfunctions as scenario creating section 332B.

In Step S202, scenario creating section 332B displays a scenariocreation window on display section 350.

FIG. 12 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenario creation windowSMW displayed on display section 350. As illustrated, the scenariocreation window SMW includes a file management area MNA to the left sidein the drawing, a reduced image display area SPA at the lower right, anda selected source file information area SFA at the upper right.

The file management area MNA comprises a folder area A1 showing foldersthat can be managed in a hierarchical structure, and a file area A2showing files in folders indicated in folder area A1. The user canindicate in folder area A1 a folder in which a desired source file isstored, to display the file icon for the desired source file in filearea A2.

It should be noted that this file management area MNA is capable ofdisplaying file icons for source files stored in a file server SBconnected to network NW, or in some other external device.

The reduced image display area SPA is an area for displaying pagewiseimage information as reduced pagewise images in the event that sourcefiles indicated in file management area MNA are source files ofpredetermined format that include pagewise scenario information andimage information. In this embodiment, the abovementioned source file ofpredetermined format is assumed to be a PPT format file (hereinafter“PPT file”) created using PowerPoint (trademark of Microsoft Corp.). Bydisplaying a reduced image in this way, pagewise image content can bereadily verified.

The selected source file information area SFA is an area for displayingsource file information selected by the user (selected source fileinformation), in an order indicated by the user. Scenario creatingsection 332B (FIG. 9) creates a scenario file in accordance with thedisplayed content in the selected source file information area SFA.

In Step S203 of FIG. 11, the user selects a source file, and theinformation of the selected source file (selected source fileinformation) is displayed in selected source file information area SFA.

Specifically, the user, by operating the mouse MS, selects the file iconfor a source file displayed in the file management area MNA, and dragsand drops it into the selected source file information area SFA. Bymeans of this, selected source file information associated with thesource file selected by the user is displayed in the selected sourcefile information area SFA.

Or, the user, by operating the mouse MS, selects a reduced pagewiseimage displayed in reduced image display area SPA and drags and drops itinto the selected source file information area SFA. By means of this aswell, selected source file information associated with the source fileselected by the user is displayed in the selected source fileinformation area SFA.

Here, drag and drop process means a process of placing the mouse pointerover an icon etc. and dragging it, and then placing the icon overanother icon or area and dropping it. Specifically, the drag and dropprocess in Step S203 means the following series of processes. That is,the mouse pointer is placed over a file icon displayed in filemanagement area MNA or a reduced image displayed in reduced imagedisplay area SPA, and while continuing to hold switch provided to mouseMS, mouse MS is moved to move the file icon or reduced image (dragprocess). Then, the file icon or reduced image is placed over theselected source file information area SFA, and the mouse MS switch isreleased (drop process).

It should be noted that selection of the abovementioned source file iconor reduced image may also be performed for a source file stored in afile server SB connected to network NW or in some other external device.By means of this, a source file stored in some other external device maybe selected and a scenario file created.

Source file selection is also possible for multiple format source files.That is, the scenario creating section 332B of this embodiment cancreate scenario files using multiple format source files.

By the way, as shown in selected source file information area SFA ofFIG. 12, each selected source file information includes the creator ofthe selected source file, the file name, page indicating informationindicating the page in the source file, and a reduced page imagerepresenting the indicated page. Page indicating information is set whenthe user drags and drops a source file icon displayed in file managementarea MNA into selected source file information area SFA. That is, whenthe user drags and drops a source file icon into selected source fileinformation area SFA, scenario creating section 332B causes a dialog box(not shown) to be displayed, and the user indicated the desired page inthe dialog box. On the other hand, when the user drags and drops areduced image displayed in reduced image display area SPA into selectedsource file information area SFA, the abovementioned dialog box is notdisplayed, and page indicating information is automatically included inthe selected source file information.

In selected source file information area SFA, each selected source fileinformation is displayed in the order indicated by the user. The usercan modify the lineup order of selected source file information inselected source file information area SFA. Modification of the lineuporder is performed by dragging and dropping a strip-shaped informationdisplay image IP in which each selected source file information isdisplayed.

When the desired selected source file information is displayed in thedesired order in selected source file information area SFA in this way,in Step S204 (FIG. 11), a scenario file is created. At this time,scenario creating section 332B creates a scenario file in accordancewith display content in selected source file information area SFA.

In Step S205, the created scenario file SF is supplied to projector PJ2.In this embodiment, projector PJ2 connected via network NW is preset asthe supply destination for scenario file SF. Specifically, the userbrings up in scenario creation window SMW a settings screen (not shown)for setting the supply destination for scenario file SF, and sets thesupply destination in the settings screen. Scenario creating section332B supplies the created scenario file SF to projector PJ2 via networkNW.

Also, scenario creating section 332B supplies a source file MF used inthe scenario file SF to projector PJ2 and/or file server SB via networkNW. Specifically, where a scenario file SF has been created using asource file MF stored in the external storage device 310 etc. ofcomputer PC2, scenario creating section 332B supplies the source file MFstored in computer PC2 to projector PJ2 and file server SB. It should benoted that where source file MF is supplied to file server SB and notsupplied to projector PJ2, there is the advantage that the memorycapacity of external storage device 102 and internal storage device 104of projector PJ2 can be relative small. Also, where scenario creatingsection 332B has crated a scenario file using a source file stored infile server SB, the source file stored in file server SB is not suppliedto projector PJ2.

In Step S206, projector PJ2 executes a process according to the suppliedscenario file SF. At this time, the user, using remote controller RM,displays a selection screen for selecting a desired scenario file from aplurality of scenario files stored in the internal storage device 104etc. of projector PJ2, and selects the desired scenario file. FIG. 13 isan illustrative diagram showing a scenario file selection screen SSMdisplayed by projector PJ2. This scenario file selection screen SSM isdisplayed on screen SC by means of the menu image processor 150, inresponse to a command from remote control signal processor 160,generating image data representing the scenario file selection screen,and supplying it to image processor 110. The user selects the desiredscenario file in scenario file selection screen SSM using the remotecontroller RM. In the scenario file selection screen SSM of FIG. 13,“Scenario File B” is selected.

When a scenario file has been selected in scenario file selection screenSSM, the scenario reproducing section 105B in internal storage device104, in accordance with the selected scenario file SF in scenariostorage area 107, reads out the source file MF and provides pagewisepage image data as original image data to image processor 110. Sourcefile MF is read out from the storage area indicated by scenario file SF.That is, where source file MF is stored in the scenario storage area 107of projector PJ2, scenario reproducing section 105B reads out the sourcefile from scenario storage area 107. Where source file MF is stored inthe storage area of file server SB, scenario reproducing section 105Breads out the source file from file server SB. By means of this,projector PJ2 is capable of pagewise sequential projected display ofimages onto screen SC.

It should be noted that, in this embodiment, processing in accordancewith the scenario file is executed after a scenario file has beenselected in scenario file selection screen SSM (FIG. 13), but it is alsopossible to have processing in accordance with scenario file SFautomatically executed simultaneously with supply of the scenario fileSF from computer PC2 to projector PJ2.

FIG. 14 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of content of ascenario file supplied to projector PJ2. The symbols “L1” etc. appendedto the right in FIG. 14 are convenient symbols representing line number,and are not included in the actual scenario file. The “begin” command inline number L1 and the “end” command in line number L16 are commandsrespectively signifying the beginning and end of processing inaccordance with the scenario file, and in actual practice processing isexecuted in accordance with the commands of line numbers L2-L15.

The “Display” commands included in scenario file SF1 line numbers L2,L4, L6, L8, L10, L12 and L14 are commands to read out the subsequentsource file and display the image. “Display” commands include pathinformation representing the source file storage location (storagearea), and page indicating information indicating a page in the sourcefile. Thus, when a “Display” command is executed, only the relevant pagein the source file stored in the predetermined storage area is extractedand read out. Also, as shown in FIG. 14, the scenario file of thisembodiment is created by combining multiple format source files createdby a plurality of application programs.

For example, projector PJ2, in accordance with the“¥mem¥Picture.ppt/page 1” following the “Display” command in line numberL2 of scenario file SF2, extracts and reads out the first page of the“Picture.ppt” file stored in scenario storage area 107 of projector PJ2.Further, in accordance with the “¥¥B¥FLDA¥Document.doc/page2” followingthe “Display” command in line number L10, it extracts and reads out thesecond page of the “Document.doc” file stored in folder “FLDA” of fileserver SB. Further, in accordance with the “¥¥SB¥FLDB¥Graph.xls/sheet3”following the “Display” command in line number L12, it extracts andreads out the third sheet (third page) of the “Graph.xls” file stored infolder “FLDB” of file server SB.

The “Pause” commands included in scenario file SF1 line numbers L3, L5and L7 are commands to maintain the preceding process until there isinput from the user. For example, when an image is projected anddisplayed at line number L2, the image indicated in line number L2 isdisplayed until the user instructs transition to the next process byusing the remote controller RM. By means of this, the user can performpagewise changing of displayed images at a desired timing.

The “Wait” commands included in line numbers L9, L11, L13 and L15 ofscenario file SF1 are commands to maintain the preceding process for anindicated time interval. For example, when an image is displayed at linenumber L8, after the image has been displayed for the “10000 msec”following the “Wait” command, it moves to the process of the next linenumber L10. By means of this, projected images can be automaticallypage-forwarded.

Display time for each page image may be set in the scenario creationwindow SMW of FIG. 12. Specifically, each information display image IPdisplaying each selected source file information in selected source fileinformation area SFA is selected, a dialog box (not shown) is displayed,and image display time is set in the dialog box.

In this way, in step S206, projector PJ2, in accordance with a scenariofile SF1 like that shown in FIG. 14, reads out multiple format sourcefiles from a storage area in projector PJ2 or a file server connected tothe network NW, and sequentially projects pagewise image.

As described above, computer PC2 in this embodiment has a scenariocreating section 332B and functions as a scenario creating device.Scenario creating section 332B displays on display section 350 ascenario creation window SMW that includes a file management area MNAfor displaying source files; a selected source file information area SFAfor displaying information of a source file selected by the user in filemanagement area MNA, in an order indicated by the user; and a reducedimage display area SPA that displays, for a source file of predeterminedformat (PPT file) that includes pagewise scenario information and imageinformation displayed in file management area MNA, the pagewise imageinformation as a reduced pagewise image. Scenario creating section 332Bthen creates a scenario file SF1 like that shown in FIG. 14, inaccordance with the display content in selected source file informationarea SFA.

By using such a scenario creating device PC2, scenario files can becreated easily simply by displaying selected source file information ina desired order in the selected source file information area SFA. Bysupplying a scenario file created in this way to a scenario reproducingdevice such projector PJ2, pagewise images can easily be displayed insequence.

Also, the projector PJ2 of this embodiment comprises a page imageprocessor for reading out a source file in accordance with a scenariofile stored in scenario storage area 107, and preparing page image datarepresenting pagewise images for projection display. This page imageprocessor can prepare the page image data on the basis of a plurality ofsource files. By using such a projector PJ2 as the scenario reproducingdevice, the projector is capable of easily displaying pagewise images insequence.

In this specification, the term “projector” refers in a narrow sense toprojector PJ2 alone, but in some instances also refers in a broad senseto projector PJ2 and computer PC2. That is, in the second embodiment, ascenario reproducing system comprising projector PJ2 as the scenarioreproducing device and computer PC2 as the scenario supplying devicecorresponds to the projector in the fifth aspect of this invention.

C. Third Embodiment

FIG. 15 is an illustrative diagram showing a scenario reproducing systemin a third embodiment. This scenario reproducing system comprises acomputer PC3 having the function of a source file supplying device; anda projection type display device, i.e. a projector PJ3, having thefunction of a scenario reproducing device. Computer PC3 and projectorPJ3 are interconnected via a network NW.

The projector PJ3 of this embodiment can reproduce pagewise images usingas-is source files of predetermined format that include pagewisescenario information and image information. Thus, the computer PC3 ofthis embodiment supplies a source file MF of predetermined format as-isto projector PJ3. In accordance with scenario information contained inthe supplied source file MF, the projector PJ3 reads out imageinformation contained in the source file MF, and displays page imagesORG corresponding to source files MF on a screen SC.

As shown in FIG. 15, computer PC3 comprises a mouse MS as a pointingdevice. As will be described later, computer PC3 generates operationinformation OPS accompanying operation of the mouse MS and supplies itto projector PJ3 via network NW. Projector PJ3, on the basis ofoperation information OPS, can display, for example, a pointer image PPJin a page image ORG displayed on screen SC. In FIG. 15, computer PC3supplies operation information OPS to projector PJ3, but does not supplyimage data representing pointer image PPJ.

FIG. 16 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofcomputer PC3 of FIG. 15. This computer PC3 has an arrangementsubstantially similar to computer PC2 of FIG. 9, but RAM 330 stores asource file supplying program for implementing the function of a sourcefile supplying section 336, and an operation information generatingprogram implementing the function of an operation information generatingsection 338.

Source file supplying section 336 has the function of supplying aprepared file of predetermined format (for example, a PPT file) as-is toprojector PJ3 via a network interface section 390.

Operation information generating section 338 has the function ofdetecting operation of input section 360 by the user, and generatingoperation information OPS on the basis of the detection result. Thegenerated operation information OPS is supplied to projector PJ3 vianetwork interface section 390.

FIG. 17 is an illustrative diagram showing a simplified arrangement ofprojector PJ3 of FIG. 15. As this projector PJ3 has an arrangementsubstantially similar to projector PJ2 of FIG. 10, detailed descriptionis omitted.

However, network interface section 190 has the function of supplying asource file MF—supplied from computer PC3 via a LAN—to the scenariostorage area 107 of internal storage device 104. Network interfacesection 190 also has the function of supplying operation informationOPS—supplied from computer PC3 via a LAN—to CPU 100 via bus 100 b. CPU100, on the basis of the operation information OPS, operates imageprocessor 110, embellishment image processor 140, menu image processor150, etc. For example, in the case that operation information OPScontains position information representing the position of a pointerimage PPJ superimposed in an original image (page image) ORG,embellishment image processor 140 supplies pointer image data to imageprocessor 110 on the basis of operation information (positioninformation) OPS. By means of this, image processor 110 can synthesizethe original image data (page image data) and pointer image data on thebasis of the operation information (position information) OPS, and as aresult a pointer image PPJ is superimposed at a predetermined locationof the original image (page image) ORG.

Internal storage device 104 comprises a scenario reproducing section105C for reproducing a supplied source file (PPT file) MF, and ascenario storage area 107 for storing source files MF supplied fromnetwork interface section 190. Scenario reproducing section 105C isprovided with a viewer function allowing the contents of source files MFof predetermined format to be viewed. That is, in accordance withscenario information included in the supplied source file MF, scenarioreproducing section 105C reads out image information contained in thesource file MF, and supplies pagewise page image data as original imagedata to image processor 110.

It should be noted that CPU 100, image processor 110, embellishmentimage processor 140 and scenario reproducing section 105C in thisembodiment correspond to the page image processor in this invention.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing a series of processes in the scenarioreproducing system of FIG. 15.

In Step S301, an execution icon for causing processing to be executed bysource file supplying section 336 is displayed on display section 350 ofcomputer PC3 (FIG. 16). FIG. 19 is an illustrative diagram showing adesktop screen displayed on display section 350. As illustrated, thedesktop screen includes an execution icon EI for causing processing tobe executed by source file supplying section 336.

In Step S302, the user operates the mouse MS (FIG. 9) of input section360 to drag and drop a file icon FI for a source file of predeterminedformat on the execution icon EI, as shown in FIG. 19. Here, source fileof predetermined format means a source file that includes pagewisescenario information and image information, and in the presentembodiment is assumed to be a PPT format file created using PowerPoint(trademark of Microsoft Corp.) or the like. As noted earlier, drag anddrop process means a process of placing the mouse pointer PPC over thefile icon FI for the source file and dragging it, and then placing theicon over execution icon EI and dropping it.

In Step S303, the source file supplying program is run by means of thedrag and drop process of Step S302. At this time the program stored inexternal storage device 310 (FIG. 16) of computer PC2 is loaded into RAM330 and functions as source file supplying section 336.

In Step S304, source file supplying section 336 displays on displaysection 350 a dialog box (not shown) for setting the supply destinationto which the source file should be supplied. In this embodiment, theuser sets as the supply destination for the source file the projectorPJ3 (FIG. 16) which is connected via network interface section 390. Atthis time a resolution (for example, XGA etc.) appropriate for theprojector PJ3 set as the supply destination is set as well, and the setresolution is used in processing by the operation information generatingsection 338.

In Step S305, source file supplying section 336 supplies a source fileas-is to projector PJ3. Specifically, source file supplying section 336supplies the source file via network interface section 390 to thescenario storage area 107 in the internal storage device 104 ofprojector PJ3. As in the second embodiment, the source file may bestored in an external storage device 102 or a memory card MC installedin memory card controller 170.

In Step T301, projector PJ3 automatically initiates a process accordingto the scenario information in the source file, at the same time thatthe source file is supplied. Specifically, scenario reproducing section105C in the internal storage device 104 of projector PJ3 reads out imageinformation on the basis of pagewise scenario information contained inthe source file of predetermined format (PPT File) stored in scenariostorage area 107, and supplies pagewise page image data as originalimage data to image processor 110. In this way, in projector PJ3,sequential images are projected and displayed in according to scenarioinformation.

Source file supplying section 336 supplies the source file to projectorPJ3, and in Step S306 an operation information generating program runs.At this time, operation information generating section 338 displays ondisplay section 350 an operation detection window that includes anoperation information generating area.

FIG. 20 is an illustrative diagram showing an operation detection windowDW displayed on display section 350 of computer PC3. On the displaysection 350 shown in FIG. 20, the operation detection window DW and amemo display window MW for displaying a memo indicating content to bepresented in a presentation, etc are displayed.

As shown in the drawing, operation detection window DW includes a “Menu”button BM and an operation information generating area GA. Here,operation information generating area GA means an area for generatingoperation information OPS accompanying operation of the mouse MS. InFIG. 20, the pointer image PPC corresponding to mouse MS is displayedover the entire area of display section 350, but only when pointer imagePPC is displayed within operation information generating area GA,operation information OPS accompanying operation of the mouse MS isgenerated. By so doing, when the user operates the mouse MS with thepointer image PPC displayed in an area outside the operation informationgenerating area GA, operation information OPS for the mouse MS is notgenerated, thus allowing the mouse MS to be used to perform otheroperations, for example, an operation to modify a memo to be displayedin memo display window MW.

In Step S307, operation information generating section 338 detectsoperation of the mouse MS as input section 360. Operation of mouse MSmeans an operation in which the user moves the mouse MS, a depressionoperation of a switch provided to the mouse MS, etc. Then, in Step S308operation information generating section 338 generates operationinformation OPS on the basis of the detection result in Step S307.

As described above, the operation information generating section 338 ofthis embodiment detects operation of the mouse MS only when pointerimage PPC corresponding to the mouse MS is displayed within operationinformation generating area GA. Also, in this embodiment, in Step S304,projector PJ3 is set as the source file supply destination, andresolution appropriate for projector PJ3 is set, so operationinformation generating area GA may be associated with an image area ofthe original image (page image) ORG projected onto screen SC. That is,the positional relationship of the pointer image PPC in operationinformation generating area GA may be substantially matched to thepositional relationship of the pointer image PPJ in the original image(page image) ORG. Specifically, operation information generating section338 calculates the position of the pointer image PPC in operationinformation generating area GA as coordinate values with reference tothe set resolution (Step S304) of projector PJ3. Assuming thatresolution of projector PJ3 is set to XGA (1024×768), where pointerimage PPC is displayed at the upper left edge of operation informationgenerating area GA, the coordinate value is designated as (1, 1), wheredisplayed in the center the coordinate value is designated as (512,384), and where displayed at the lower right edge the coordinate valueis designated as (1024, 768). This coordinate value information isposition information for the mouse MS and is output as operationinformation OPS.

In Step S309, the computer PC3 transmits operation information OPS.

Projector PJ3, in Step T302, displays an image on the basis of theoperation information OPS. Specifically, on the basis of the operationinformation OPS, pointer image PPJ is displayed at a predeterminedposition in the original image (page image) ORG (i.e., a positioncorresponding to the position of pointer image PPC in operationinformation generating area GA).

By repeating the processes of Steps S307-S309 and T302, the pointerimage PPJ may be moved in the original image (page image) ORG projectedonto screen SC, in association with movement of the mouse MS.

In Step T303, the scenario reproducing section 105C in projector PJ3terminates the process in accordance with pagewise scenario informationcontained in the supplied source file of predetermined format (PPTfile).

In Step S310, computer PC3, in accordance with termination informationsupplied from projector PJ3, terminates the operation informationgenerating program.

By the way, when the user performs an operation of pressing (clicking) aswitch provided to the mouse MS in Step S307, during projection of animage by projector PJ3 in accordance with scenario information in StepT301, images can be page-forwarded sequentially.

Also in Step S307, when the user performs an operation of moving mouseMS while pressing a switch provided to the mouse MS, an area can beindicated in the projected page image ORG. With the projector PJ3 inthis embodiment, by indicating an area, an embellishment image differentfrom a pointer image, such as a box image or border frame image, can besuperimposed on the indicated area in page image ORG.

As will be apparent from the preceding description, in Step S307, notonly position information for the mouse MS but also switch informationfor the mouse MS is generated as operating information OPS.

FIGS. 21(A-1)-21(A-3) and 21(B-1)-21(B-3) are illustrative diagrams ofthe process when superimposing a box image PB in a page image ORG usinga pointer image PPJ in page image ORG. The size of box image PB isdetermined by indicating two opposing apices (a start point and an endpoint) of box image PB in page image ORG. FIGS. 21(A-1)-21(A-3) show anoperation information generating area GA included in operation detectionwindow DW (FIG. 20). FIGS. 21(B-1)-21(B-3) show a page image ORGdisplayed on screen SC by projector PJ3.

In FIG. 21(A-1), the mouse MS of computer PC3 is operated to indicate astart point P1C for indicating an area. This is done by the user movingthe mouse MS to move the pointer image PPC to the start point P1C andpressing a switch on the mouse MS. At this time, as shown in FIG.21(B-1), a start point P1J is indicated in page image ORG by pointerimage PPJ. When start point P1J is indicated in page image ORG, a startpoint image PS signifying the start point of box image PB issuperimposed at the start point P1J position.

In FIG. 21(A-2), the user moves the mouse MS to the end point P2C of thearea while continuing to press the switch of the mouse MS. At this time,within operation information generating area GA, a frame having asegment joining start point P1C and end point P2C as a diagonal line isdisplayed with a broken line. Meanwhile, as shown in FIG. 21(B-2), whenstart point image PS is displayed in page image ORG, an end point imagePE is displayed instead of pointer image PPJ, and the end point P2J inpage image ORG is indicated using end point image PE.

In FIG. 21(A-3), the user halts pressing of the switch of the mouse MS.At this time, as shown in FIG. 21(B-3), a box image PB is superimposedover a range set by means of start point P1J and end point P2J in pageimage ORG.

Embellishment image data representing the respective embellishmentimages of start point image PS, end point image PE, and box image PB isprepared by embellishment image processor 140 (FIG. 17) and supplied toimage processor 110.

Also, the type of embellishment image such as box image PB superimposedon page image ORG is predetermined by selecting the “Menu” button BMcontained in operation detection window DW (FIG. 20). Specifically, whenthe user moves the pointer image PPC on the operation detection windowDW of computer PC3 and selects the “Menu” button BM, menu display startinformation is supplied to projector PJ3 via the LAN. The CPU 100 inprojector PJ3, on the basis of the menu display start informationsupplied to network interface section 190, controls the menu imageprocessor 150 and image processor 110, and causes a menu image to beprojected onto screen SC as an original image ORG. The user, using thepointer image PPJ displayed superimposed in the original image ORG (menuimage), selects the type of embellishment image to be used. It is alsopossible to display the menu image using the remote controller RM andselect the type of embellishment image to be used using the remotecontroller RM.

As described above, the computer PC3 of this embodiment comprises asource file supplying section 336 and functions as a source filesupplying device. The source file supplying section 336 causes there tobe displayed on display section 350 an execution icon for causing thesource file supplying section 336 to execute a process, and by operatingthe mouse MS to drag and drop the file icon for source file onto theexecution icon, the source file MF is supplied to scenario storage area107. Also, projector PJ3 comprises a page image processor for reading asource file supplied from source file supplying device PC3 and stored inscenario storage area 107, and, in accordance with scenario information,preparing page image data representing a pagewise image represented byimage information.

It should be noted that, in the third embodiment, the scenarioreproducing system comprising projector PJ3 as the scenario reproducingdevice and computer PC3 as the source file supplying device correspondsto the projector in the sixth aspect of the invention.

By using the projector in the sixth aspect of the invention, the laborof creating a scenario file can be omitted. As a result, the projectorcan easily sequentially display pagewise images.

C-1. Modifications of the Second and Third Embodiments

In the second embodiment, computer PC2 comprises only a scenariocreating section 332B in RAM 330, but computer PC2 may also comprise ascenario creating section having a function like that of the source filesupplying section 336 provided to the computer PC3 in the thirdembodiment. By so doing, the user may supply a scenario file prepared inadvance by scenario creating section 332B of computer PC2 to a projector(i.e. projection type display device) PJ2 by dragging and dropping thefile icon for the scenario file on the execution icon of the scenariosupplying section, as shown in FIG. 19.

Also, in the second embodiment computer PC2 comprises only a scenariocreating section 332B in RAM 330, but computer PC2 may also comprise anoperation information generating section 338 like the computer PC3 ofthe third embodiment, so that operation of the mouse MS by the user canbe detected and, based on the detection result, operation informationOPS can be generated. By so doing, a projector (i.e. projection typedisplay device) PJ2 can be operated by means of the user operating themouse MS.

In the above case, the scenario reproducing system comprising: aprojector PJ2 as a scenario reproducing device; and a computer PC2 as ascenario supplying device having scenario supplying section or operationinformation generating section corresponds to the projector in the fifthaspect of the invention.

In the second and third embodiments, computers PC2, PC3 comprise a mouseMS as the input section 360, but instead of a mouse MS there could beprovided a tablet, trackball, track pad, joystick or other pointingdevice. These pointing devices have the same function as the mouse MSand correspond to the pointing device in the present invention.

D. Fourth Embodiment

In a fourth embodiment, there is described a projector having a securityfunction pertaining to the invention, and an image display systemcomposed of this projector connected to a network.

D-1 Projector Arrangement

A simplified arrangement of the projection type display device(projector) in accordance with this embodiment is described withreference to FIG. 22 and FIG. 23. FIG. 22 is an illustrative diagramshowing an exemplary arrangement for an image display system composed ofa projector in accordance with a fourth embodiment, connected to anetwork. FIG. 23 is a block diagram showing an internal circuitarrangement of a projector in accordance with a fourth embodiment.

Projector PJ4 is connected to a file server FS and a personal computerPC4 via a network line NL. Personal computer PC4 comprises a CPU 1050for executing application programs, a ROM 1051 for storing applicationprograms, and a RAM 1052 for temporarily storing processing contentduring execution of an application program. Personal computer PC4 alsocomprises an internal hard disk drive (HDD) 1053 for storing the datafile (display data) created by the application program at the time oftermination of the application program, and a display 1054 fordisplaying a user interface for the application program. A data filestored in HDD 1053 of personal computer PC4 is transferred to a fileserver FS by a procedure described later. The CPU 1050 of personalcomputer PC4, during transfer of the data file to the file server FS,generates an index file and transfers it to the projector PJ4. Commandsand data are given to personal computer PC4 via, for example, outputdevices 1055, namely a keyboard 1551 and mouse 1552.

Projector PJ4 comprises an external storage device 1041 such as a memorycard based on the PCMCIA standard, and stores the index file transferredfrom the personal computer PC4. Commands and data are given to projectorPJ4 via, for example, an external input device 1040 such as a remotecontroller. File server FS is a server that stores data files in placeof projector PJ4, and has a plurality of directories. In thisembodiment, file server FS is assigned the appellation S1. In the eventof reproducing (projecting) a data file, when the projector PJ4, usingan index file, requests the file server FS to transfer the data file,the requested data file is transferred from file server FS to projectorPJ4 via the network line NL.

The internal arrangement of projector PJ4 in this embodiment isdescribed making reference to FIG. 23. Projector PJ4 comprises an ASPterminal section 1020 that functions mainly as an ASP terminal, and aprojector section 1030 that functions mainly as a conventionalprojector. That is, the projector PJ4 in this embodiment can function asan ASP terminal for an ASP.

ASP terminal section 1020 comprises: a first central processing unit(CPU) 1200 for executing various operation processes including executiona client application program for the ASP; a first read-only memory (ROM)1202 for storing various programs for execution by the first CPU 1200,including viewer application programs, client application programs, andapplication programs for acquiring data files on the basis of indexfiles; and a first random-access memory (RAM) 1204 for temporarilystoring operation results of first CPU 1200, data etc. Further, firstROM 1202 stores a authorization program executed during reproduction(projection) of display data. First CPU 1200 and first ROM 1202 areconnected so as to be capable of unidirectional or bi-directionalcommunication; first CPU 1200 and first RAM 1204 are connected so as tobe capable of bi-directional communication.

ASP terminal section 1020 comprises a graphics controller 1210 which isconnected so as to be capable of bi-directional communication with firstCPU 1200 and generates image data on the basis of draw commands fromfirst CPU 1200. Graphics controller 1210 has an LSI chip (not shown) forgenerating images, and a video memory (VRAM) 1212 for storing generatedimages (display images).

ASP terminal section 1020 comprises, as interfaces for sending andreceiving commands and data between projector PJ4 and external devices,a network interface controller 1220, an I/O port 1230, a PCMCIAinterface controller 1240, and a USB controller 1250. Network interfacecontroller 1220 is, for example, a controller based on the Ethernetstandards, and converts commands and data transmitted from ASP terminalsection 1020 to network line NL into the proper format in accordancewith the protocol of network communication, or converts signals receivedfrom network line NL into a format suitable for processing by ASPterminal section 1020. I/O port 1230 is a typical input/output port andis connected to a wireless input device 1234 via an identifying circuit1232, as well as to an external input device 1040 and a second CPU 1300of projector section 1030. Wireless input device 1234 is an input devicefor receiving input data transmitted wirelessly from a wireless typeinput device, and identifying circuit 1232 identifies whether or not theinput data received from wireless input device 1234 is input datatransmitted to itself.

PCMCIA interface controller 1240 is a controller for transferring datafrom ASP terminal section 1020 to an external device in accordance withthe PCMCIA standard, and transferring data from an external device toASP terminal section 1020. In this embodiment, for example, a PC cardmemory is connected as external storage device 1041, and display datatransferred from personal computer PC4 is stored in external storagedevice 1041. USB controller 1250 is a controller for transferring databetween ASP terminal section 1020 and external devices in accordancewith the USB standard, and is connected, for example, to external inputdevice 1040 via USB HUB 1252.

ASP terminal section 1020 is also connected to a real time clock 1260for supplying real time in ASP terminal section 1020, and a sound source1262 for generating sound data on the basis of instructions from firstCPU 1200.

First CPU 1200 and the controllers 1210 etc. in ASP terminal section1020 are interconnected via a bus for transfer of data and commands.

Next, the arrangement of projector section 1030 is described. Projectorsection 1030 comprises: a second central processing unit (CPU) 1300 forexecuting predetermined programs and controlling the circuits ofprojector section 1030; a second read-only memory (ROM) 1302 for storingprograms for execution by the second CPU 1300; and a secondrandom-access memory (RAM) 1304 for temporarily storing operationresults of second CPU 1300, data etc. Second CPU 1300 and second ROM1302 are connected so as to be capable of unidirectional orbi-directional communication; second CPU 1300 and second RAM 1304 areconnected so as to be capable of bi-directional communication.

Projector section 1030 further comprises a video signal conversioncircuit 1310, an audio control circuit 1320, a liquid crystal (LCD)drive circuit 1330, a light source control circuit 1340, a cooling fancontrol circuit 1350, and a projection optical system 1360.

Video signal conversion circuit 1310 implements the functions of ananalog-digital conversion function, a decoding function, a sync signalseparation function, and an image processing function. That is, videosignal conversion circuit 1310 converts an analog video signal givenfrom an external video signal input terminal 1312 into digital imagedata, and in sync with a sync signal, writes the converted digital imagedata into a frame memory (not shown) in video signal conversion circuit1310, or reads from frame memory digital image data that has beenwritten to frame memory. As analog video signals there may be input anRGB signal output from a personal computer, or a composite video signaloutput from a videotape recorder etc. In the event that the analog videosignal is a composite video signal, video signal conversion circuit 1310demodulates the composite video signal as well as separating the syncsignal and the component video signal composed of color signals of threecolors RGB, and converts the component video signals into digital imagedata. In the event that the analog video signal is an RGB signal outputfrom a personal computer, it is input as the component video signal andthe sync signal is also input separately, so a separation process is notneeded, and video signal conversion circuit 1310 converts the componentvideo signals to digital image data.

Video signal conversion circuit 1310 is also given a digital videosignal transmitted from the graphics controller 1210 of ASP terminalsection 1020. In this case, it is input as the digital video signal andthe sync signal is also supplied separately so an analog-digitalconversion process and separation process are not needed.

Audio control circuit 1320 is connected to an external audio signalinput terminal 1322, a speaker 1324, the second CPU 1300, and the soundsource 1262 of ASP terminal section 1020. Audio control circuit 1320 isconnected to the second CPU 1300, and according to an instruction fromsecond CPU 1300 drives speaker 1324 by means of a drive signal generatedon the basis of an audio signal or sound data sent from external audiosignal input terminal 1322 or sound source 1262.

LCD drive circuit 1330 receives image data processed by video signalconversion circuit 1310, and in response to the received image datadrives LCD 1332 to modulate illuminating light radiated by light source1342. The illuminating light modulated by LCD 1332 is projected viaprojection optical system 1360 including a lens onto a projectionsurface, for example, a projection screen. Light source control circuit1340 is connected to light source 1342, and controls on/off etc. oflight source 1342 according to instructions from second CPU 1300. To theback of light source 1342 is arranged a cooling fan 1352 for directingcooling air onto light source 1342. To cooling fan 1352 is connectedcooling fan control circuit 1350, and cooling fan control circuit 1350controls the rotation speed etc. of cooling fan 1352 according toinstructions from second CPU 1300.

D-2. Basic Operation of Projector

Next the basis operation of projector PJ4 in accordance with thisembodiment having the arrangement mentioned above is described withreference to FIG. 22 and FIG. 23.

A signal given to projector PJ4 via network line NL is converted by thenetwork interface controller 1220 of ASP terminal section 1020 into aformat appropriate for ASP terminal section 1020, and transferred asdata and a command to first CPU 1200. First CPU 1200 temporarily storesthe transferred data in first RAM 1204, and determines whether thetransferred command is a command directed to ASP terminal section 1020or a command directed to projector section 1030. If the transferredcommand is a command directed to projector section 1030, first CPU 1200transfers the command to the second CPU 1300 of projector section 1030via the I/O port 1230.

On the other hand, if the transferred command is a command directed toASP terminal section 1020, first CPU 1200 executes operation processingon the basis of the transferred command. First CPU 1200, for example,takes data stored in first RAM 1204 and stores it in external storagedevice 1041. Also, first CPU 1200, in the event that a reproductionrequest (projection display request) for data stored in external storagedevice 1041 is given by remote controller 1040 etc., executes a datafile reproduction program using an index file, described later. FirstCPU 1200, in order to read out (reproduce) data stored in externalstorage device 1041 or first RAM 1204, reads out from first ROM 1202,runs an appropriate viewer application program, generates user interfacedata for the stored data, and sends it to graphics controller 1210together with a Draw command.

Or, in the event that projector PJ4 functions as a server basedcomputing (SBA) client, first CPU 1200 runs the corresponding clientapplication program and sends a Draw command to graphics controller 1210so that user interface screen data is generated from the receiveddisplay image data of dedicated format. Graphics controller 1210, inaccordance with the received Draw command, generates user interfaceimage data (hereinafter called “image data”) to be displayed on thebasis of the display screen data and stores it in VRAM 1212 in graphicscontroller 1210.

Graphics controller 1210, in accordance with an instruction from firstCPU 1200, at predetermined timing reads out image data stored in VRAM1212 in graphics controller 1210, and transfers it to the video signalconversion circuit 1310 of projector section 1030. First CPU 1200receives a command or data from external input device 1040 via USB HUB1252, USB controller 1250 and I/O port 1230. First CPU 1200, inaccordance with the command received via external input device 1040 ornetwork line NL, takes data stored in RMA 1204 or image data stored inVRAM 1212 in graphics controller 1210 via PCMCIA interface controller1204, and stores it in external storage device 1041.

Video signal conversion circuit 1310, upon receiving image data fromgraphics controller 1210, executes the previously-described process andsends the processed image data to LCD drive circuit 1330. LCD drivecircuit 1330 drive-controls LCD 1332 in response to the received imagedata, and projects the desired image data on the projection screen.

Second CPU 1300, in the event, for example, that a command sent fromnetwork line NL via I/O port 1230 is an instruction to turn on lightsource 1342, turns on light source 1342 via light source control circuit1340. Second CPU 1300 controls operation status of cooling fan 1352(rotation speed, rotation timing etc.) according to the temperature oflight source 1342 via cooling fan control circuit 1350.

Data transmission from projector PJ4 to network line NL is executed vianetwork interface controller 1220 under instructions of first CPU 1200.

D-3. Procedure for Transferring Index File to Projector in Accordancewith this Embodiment in Image Display System, and Procedure forDisplaying Data File Using Index File in Projector

Next, a process executed when transferring a data file from a personalcomputer PC4 via a network to the projector PJ4 in accordance with thisembodiment having the arrangement mentioned above is described withreference to FIG. 22 and FIG. 24 through FIG. 27. FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a processing routine executed when transferring a datafile from personal computer PC4 to projector PJ4. FIG. 25 is anillustrative diagram showing a conceptually a process executed ondisplay 1054 of personal computer PC4, for transferring a data file frompersonal computer PC4 to projector P114. FIG. 26 is an illustrativediagram showing an example of an index file information setting screenthat appears on display 1054 after the process shown in FIG. 25 has beencompleted. FIG. 27 is an illustrative diagram conceptually depictingdata included in an index file.

Presentation data, word processor data etc. generated by executing anapplication program on personal computer PC4 is temporarily stored inRAM 1052 in personal computer PC4 during execution of the applicationprogram. At the time of closing the application program, it is stored asa data file on the internal HDD 1053 of personal computer PC4. Thus, HDD1053 stores a plurality of data files including data files generated inthe past.

In the processing routine shown in FIG. 24, the CPU 1050 of personalcomputer PC4 waits for issuance of a file store request (Step S100: No),and if issuance of a file store request is detected (Step S100: Yes),requests input of a file storage destination etc. (Step S110).

The typical OS of today enables various operations to be performedvisually by means of a graphical user interface (GUI) displayed ondisplay 1054. In this GUI environment, as shown in FIG. 25, for example,file icons FL associated with files stored in HDD 1053 are displayed ina window FE on display 1054, and an icon PJ representing projector PJ4which is the transfer destination is displayed on display 1054. In theevent of moving (transferring) a file in HDD 1053 to projector PJ4, themouse pointer MP is placed over the desired file icon FL, and with theselect button of mouse 1552 pressed down, the mouse pointer MP is movedover the projector icon PJ and the select button is released. Thisoperation is a file movement operation well-known as drag and drop(D&D).

CPU 1050 of personal computer PC4 detects issuance of a file storerequest, when coordinate position of the mouse pointer MP, while theselect button of mouse 1552 being pressed down, is placed on an area ofprojector icon PJ and the select button is released.

As shown in FIG. 26, CPU 1050 of personal computer PC4 displays a datafile storage information setting screen CW for entering data filestorage destination, file name, password, and memos. In this embodiment,the default value for storage destination is one indicating apredetermined directory in file server FS. Also, storage locationinformation includes storage destination and file name. Passwords andmemos are optional input items. In projector PJ4, memo information isdisplayed at the same time as file name of the data file as describedlater, and thus can be used, for example, as a keyword for a search, ora notation. During setting of a password, for example, five arbitrarynumbers from 1 to 5 are entered via keyboard 1551.

CPU 1050 of personal computer PC4 determines whether or not the storagedestination is the default value (Step S120), and if it is determinedthat the storage destination is the default value (Step S120: Yes),generates an index file (Step S130). On the other hand, if CPU 1050determines that the storage destination is not the default value (StepS120: No), it modifies the storage destination (Step S140) and generatesan index file (Step S130). As shown in FIG. 27, the index file is a filethat includes the various data of data file storage destination IPaddress D1, directory D2, file name D3, password D4 and memo D5 (at timeof setting) and does not include data contained in the data file per se.Thus, whereas the file size of a data file is typically about 10 KB toseveral MB, the file size of the index file is about 1-2 KB. In thisembodiment, the storage destination is composed of the two data of datafile storage destination IP address D1 and directory D2, and the storagelocation information is composed of the three data of data file storagedestination IP address D1, directory D2 and file name D3.

CPU 1050 transfers the data file to the storage location—in thisembodiment the file server FS—, transfers the index file to the externalstorage device 1041 of projector PJ4 (Step S150), and terminates theprocessing routine. That is, the data file is stored in file server FS,and the index file is stored in the external storage device 1041 ofprojector PJ4.

Next, a reproduction process executed in projector PJ4 when reproducinga data file stored in file server FS using an index file stored inexternal storage device 1041 is described with reference to FIG. 22,FIG. 23 and FIG. 28 through FIG. 33. FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing aprocessing routine executed in projector PJ4 when reproducing a datafile stored in file server FS using an index file stored in an externalstorage device 1041. FIG. 29 is an illustrative diagram genericallydepicting a remote controller 1040 used in the fourth embodiment. FIG.30 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of a menu screen fromamong projection display screens SR of projector PJ4. FIG. 31 is anillustrative diagram showing an example of an index screen from amongprojection display screens SR of projector PJ4. FIG. 32 is anillustrative diagram showing an example of a password input box PB1display from among projection display screens SR of projector PJ4. FIG.33 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of an authorizationfailed display box PB2 display from among projection display screens SRof projector PJ4.

In this processing routine, a remote controller 1040 for transmittingcommands, as shown in FIG. 29, comprises 1-5 number keys 1401 thatfunction as function keys for executing pre-assigned functions. Remotecontroller 1040 also comprises a joystick 1402 for moving a cursor orpointer position in the vertical or horizontal direction on a projectedscreen SR, a menu call-up key 1403, an execute key 1404, etc. Prior tostarting the processing routine, the menu call-up key 1403 of remotecontroller 1040 is operated to project and display a menu screen likethat shown in FIG. 30.

The first CPU 1200 of projector PJ4 awaits for input of an index screendisplay request via remote controller 1040 (Step S200: No). Meanwhile,through operation of joystick 1402 in the menu screen shown in FIG. 30,if execute key 1404 is pressed in state that a “2. Index Screen Display”menu bar MB1 is shown highlighted, first CPU 1200 determines that a fileselect request has occurred (input) (Step S200: Yes). When first CPU1200 determines that a file select request has occurred (input), itrequests second CPU 1300 to project an index screen like that shown inFIG. 31 (Step S210).

The index screen displays, of the information included in the index filestored in external storage device 1041, the file name and memo in indexbar IB mode. Through operation of joystick 1402 in the index screenshown in FIG. 31, if execute key 1404 is pressed in state that a desireddata file—here, “2.*****.ppt . . . ”—index bar IB is shown highlighted,first CPU 1200 determines that reproduction of the highlighted data filehas been decided (input).

First CPU 1200, upon determining reproduction of a data file (Step S220:Yes), requests input of the set password (Step S230). Specifically,first CPU 1200 requests second CPU 1300 to project the password inputbox PB1 shown in FIG. 32.

A password composed of a combination of numerals from 1-5 is enteredinto password input box PB1, via the function keys 1401 of remotecontroller 1040. First CPU 1200 determines whether or not the enteredpassword matches the set password (Step S240). If determined that thetwo passwords match (Step S240: Yes), first CPU 1200 acquires, from theindex file corresponding to the data file for which reproduction hasbeen decided, the storage destination of the decided data file (fileserver FS) and requests transfer of the decided data file (Step S250).

First CPU 1200 waits for reception of the decided data file (Step S260:No), and when the decided data file is received from file server FS(Step S260: Yes), requests graphics controller 1210 for a drawingprocess of the decided file, and begins reproducing the decided file(Step S270). Image data drawn and generated in graphics controller 1210is projected onto a screen via the video signal conversion circuit 1310,LCD drive circuit 1330, LCD 1332 and projection optical system 1360 ofprojector section 1030.

First CPU 1200, when it is determined that the password entered viaremote controller 1040 does not match the set password (Step S240: No),requests second CPU 1300 for projected display of an authorizationfailed display box PB2 like that shown in FIG. 33 (Step S280), and doesnot reproduce the selected file. As regards incorrect password entry,reproduction of the decided file may be prohibited when passwordmismatches continue for more than a predetermined number of times.

According to this embodiment, when a data file is stored from personalcomputer PC4 to projector PJ4, an index file containing storagedestination information required to acquire the data file via thenetwork is created. Then there is provided an arrangement wherein anindex file of small file size is stored in the external storage device1041 of projector PJ4, and data file of large file size is stored infile server FS in the network. As noted, the file size of the index isabout 1-2 KB. Thus, there is no need to provide projector PJ4 with anexternal storage device 1041 of large storage capacity, and irrespectiveof the memory capacity of external storage device 1041, data files oflarge file size can be substantially transmitted to projector PJ4. Thatis, since the index file includes storage destination information etc.for the data file, by transmitting the index file to the externalstorage device 1041 of projector PJ4, there can be devised an executionenvironment similar to that with the data file transferred to projectorPJ4.

When reproducing a desired data file in projector PJ4, projector PJ4uses the stored index file to identify the file server FS which is thestorage destination of the data file, acquires the data file from thefile server FS, and reproduces it. Thus, projector PJ4, even if the datafile is not stored directly in external storage device 1041, by means ofstoring and utilizing an index file can reproduce the data file as ifthe data file had been stored in external storage device 1041. Also, asthe file size of the index file is much smaller than the file size ofthe data file, whereby an advantage similar to that of storing more datafiles on the projector PJ4 can be effected without expanding the storagecapacity of external storage device 1041. For example, even in the caseof presentations being made by a large number of people, the projectorPJ4 can be operated in a manner similar to that where all data fileshave been stored in the external storage device 1041 of projector PJ4.

Further, by storing index files in the external storage device 1041 ofprojector PJ4 and storing data files in a file server via the network,presentation can be performed using the projector PJ4 independently,without connecting a personal computer PC4. By means of this, the laborof connecting a personal computer PC4 each time the projector PJ4 is tobe used can be dispensed with.

Also, in the above embodiment, on display 1054 of personal computer PC4,by dragging and dropping a file icon FL onto the projector icon, anindex file is automatically generated on the basis of the data file. Thegenerated index file can be transferred to and stored in projector PJ4while the data file is transferred to and stored in an arbitrary storagedestination (in this embodiment, a file server FS), so the filetransfer/storage operation can be performed easily visually. Also,during data file transfer, a password can be set to protect theconfidentiality of the data file.

Further, in the above embodiment, when the reproduction of a data filefor which a password has been set is instructed, projector PJ4 displaysa password input box PB on projection display screen SR and prompts forentry of the set password. Also, by determining whether or not theentered password matches the set password on the basis of passwordinformation included in the index file, the password authenticationprocedure can be completed prior to requesting transfer of the datafile. Accordingly, as long as the password does not match, the data filewill not be transferred from the file server FS to the projector PJ4,preventing the data file from being accessed by a third party. Also,since the data file is not transferred as long as the password does notmatch, traffic over the network line NL can be reduced.

D-4. Modifications of Fourth Embodiment

In the above embodiment, the transfer/storage destination for a datafile when its file icon is dragged and dropped over the projector iconPJ on display 1054 is a file server FS, but transfer/storage could bedone on another personal computer as the terminal.

Also, where the personal computer PC4 has a PCMCIA slot, the transferdestination of the index file from personal computer PC4 may be a PCmemory card housed in the PCMCIA slot. In such a case, by transferringthe index file to the PC memory card in personal computer PC4 inadvance, and then inserting the PC memory card into projector PJ4, thisarrangement may obtain functions and advantages similar to that of theabove embodiment.

In the above embodiment, a single index file is generated for(associated with) a single data file, but a single index file could beassociated with a plurality of data files. In this case, where there isa request for transfer of data files that will be used in sequence,transfer of a plurality of data files may be requested using a singleindex file, without using a plurality of index files.

In the above embodiment, the three data of data file storage destinationIP address D1, directory D2 and file name D3 are used as storagelocation information, but where one directory is assigned to each datefile, storage location information may be composed of storagedestination IP address D1 and directory D2. In either case, it issufficient for data files to be recognized (identified) on the basis ofindex files.

In the above embodiment, the password is set using numerals from 1-5,but this limitation is imposed simply by the numerals that can beentered by means of the remote controller 1040 as described earlier, andwhere the remote controller 1040 can input numerals other than 1-5 orcharacters, etc., passwords can of course be set using numerals otherthan 1-5 or characters, etc. For example, by providing remote controller1040 with a liquid crystal display window, passwords such as charactersmay be entered using joystick 1402. Alternatively, various numerals orcharacters can be entered using a wireless keyboard etc.

In the above embodiment, the display screen on the display 1054 and theprojected display screen SR are merely exemplary, and may of course bymodified appropriately when reduced to practice.

As noted, in the above embodiment, the name of ASP terminal section 1020is assigned to the network terminal section, but there is no need forprojector JP4 to necessarily be an ASP terminal or to be called an ASPterminal. For example, it may receive application data (files) via anetwork, open the files by means of a viewer application program orother application programs, and project the display screen thereof. Inthis case, file format may be determined in the projector PJ4 and anappropriate viewer run automatically, or a Run command for running anappropriate viewer may be supplied simultaneously together with the fileto the projector PJ4 from a server.

In the above embodiment, the ASP terminal section 1020 and the projectorsection 1030 each comprises a CPU, RAM and ROM; but these may beprovided to the ASP terminal section 1020 only. In this case, the CPU inthe ASP terminal section 1020 will execute control of the projectorsection 1030.

In the above embodiment, the projector section 1030 comprises anexternal video signal input terminal 1312 and an external audio signalinput terminal 1322, but where it is a network connection-dedicatedprojector, these may be omitted. This is because in this case, imagedata and audio data are supplied via the network line NL.

In the above embodiment, there are provided various interfacecontrollers, but with the exception of the network interface controller1220 these may be omitted.

The present invention has been shown and described hereinabove on thebasis of embodiments, but the invention is not limited to theembodiments and aspects set forth hereinabove, and may be reduced topractice in various modes without departing from the scope thereof, forexample, the following modifications are possible.

(1) In the above embodiments, the projector (i.e. projection typedisplay device) comprises a liquid crystal light valve as anelectro-optical device, but instead a micro-mirror type light modulatingdevice, CRT etc. could be provided. As a micro-mirror type lightmodulating device there may be used, for example, DMD (digitalmicro-mirror device) (trademark of TI Corp.). As the electro-opticaldevice, any device capable of forming image light in response to imagedata is acceptable.

(2) In the above embodiments, some of the elements implemented by meansof hardware may be substituted by software, and conversely some of theelements implemented by means of software may be substituted byhardware.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

This invention is applicable, for example, in various projectors capableof projected display of images.

What is claimed is:
 1. An image display system comprising: a file serverstoring a data file; and a projector including: a data file locationsetting section configured to set a location from which a data file isacquired; a data file designating section configured to designate a datafile stored in the file server; an acquire section configured to acquirethe designated data file from the file server, wherein the acquiresection set the location of the data file through the data file locationsetting section using an information that indicates a location of thedata file stored in the file server; and a projection display sectionconfigured to project an image based on the data file acquired by theacquiring section.
 2. An image display system comprising: a file serverstoring a data file; and a projector including: a data file selectingsection configured to select a data file in the file server; an acquiresection configured to acquire the selected data file from the fileserver according to an information that indicated a location of the datafile stored in the file server; and a projection display sectionconfigured to project an image based on the data file acquired by theacquiring section.
 3. An image display system comprising: a file serverstoring a data file; and a projector including: a data file designatingsection configured to designate a data file stored in the file server; adata file location setting section configured to set the data filelocation to the file server according to an information corresponding tothe designated data file, wherein the information indicates a locationof the data file stored in the file server; an acquire sectionconfigured to acquire the designated data file from the file server; anda projection display section configured to project an image based on thedata file acquired by the acquiring section.
 4. An image display systemcomprising: a file server storing a data file; and a projectorincluding: a data file location setting section configured to set alocation from which a data file is acquired to the file server; a datafile designating section configured to designate a data file stored inthe file server; an acquire section configured to acquire the designateddata file from the file server according to an information thatindicates a location of the data file stored in the file server; and aprojection display section configured to project an image based on thedata file acquired by the acquiring section.
 5. A projector comprising:a data file location setting section configured to set a location fromwhich a data file is acquired; a data file designating sectionconfigured to designate a data file stored in a file server; an acquiresection configured to acquire the designated data file from the fileserver, wherein the acquire section set the location of the data filethrough the data file location setting section using an information thatindicates a location of the data file stored in the file server; and aprojection display section configured to project an image based on thedata file acquired by the acquiring section.
 6. A projector comprising:a data file selecting section configured to select a data file in a fileserver; an acquire section configured to acquire the selected data filefrom the file server according to an information that indicated alocation of the data file stored in the file server; and a projectiondisplay section configured to project an image based on the data fileacquired by the acquiring section.
 7. A projector comprising: a datafile designating section configured to designate a data file stored in afile server; a data file location setting section configured to set thedata file location to the file server according to an informationcorresponding to the designated data file, wherein the informationindicates a location of the data file stored in the file server; anacquire section configured to acquire the designated data file from thefile server; and a projection display section configured to project animage based on the data file acquired by the acquiring section.
 8. Aprojector comprising: a data file location setting section configured toset a location from which a data file is acquired to a file server; adata file designating section configured to designate a data file storedin the file server; an acquire section configured to acquire thedesignated data file from the file server according to an informationthat indicates a location of the data file stored in the file server;and a projection display section configured to project an image based onthe data file acquired by the acquiring section.